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>>42270375
That leaves you with a lot of time to think as Akari-niji-chan sleeps peacefully. From what Rie-sama said, Er Yin-sensei, Jinyuu-onee-sama, and Shoko-san are all back at your home in Shikoku Kiki-hime, under the incredibly capable guardianship of Kiku-chan, Yui-niji-chan, Yuuhi-chan, and Inau-kun, is safely on a train on their way to the pearl palace of Mikimoto Pearl Island. Which isn't actually on the island, though you'd feel better if she were. Though, Kiku-chan probably wouldn't it's true.

So, you have time, to relax, think and consider. A lot of time. Like, hours. Even if Akari only sleeps for a little while, it's going to feel like hours. Because you really don't sleep that much, and at the best of times you're....um. Excitable, sure! That works.

Fuck.

Well, you're not going to be just sitting here.

[] Think about the previous head in your lap. (Flashback)
[] See if you can explain on the powers of the Void you're already working with. (Void Increase.)
[] Calm yourself and see how much further you can tap into the power that lets you create warm rain. (Fire Increase.)
[] Pray and commune with the Kami. (Strengthen you bonds with the Kami.)
[] Consider your next opponents. (The Japanese Diet, Oba-san, Taisho Ryoga, the Kaga Clan, or the Hojo Group.)

>>42270401
>[] Think about the previous head in your lap. (Flashback)

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Kiku is 5' 1" for ever and ever. Lesbian submissive.
Akari is 5' 3", and has another few inches to grow. Sexuality is weird, switch, cosplayer.
Yui is 5' 6" and will only grow due to circumstances beyond her control. Dyke, switch.
Kiki is 5' 6", and is at full growth. Bisexual bottom.
Ryukusa is tall at 5' 8", but this becomes 6' in her true form. She is fully grown. Lesbian top.
Er Yin is the tallest at 5' 10" and is fully grown. Lesbian dominant.
Jinyuu is 5' 7" but persistently hovers an extra three inches above the ground or floor because of her nature as a seer. Straight.
Hinata-hakase is 6' 3". Sexuality is terrifying.
Hidesato is 5' 5". Straight.
Kushinada is 5' 8". Straighter.
Taisho Ryoga is 5' 9". Who knows.
Hyun Chisato is 5' 4”, and is fully grown. Lolicon with plausible deniability.
Rie is 8” tall or 5' 5”, and is fully cat. Her sexuality is cat.
Hagyu Genso is 12' 5” standing upright. He is by and large gay.
Mizumi Shoko is 7' 2”, is fully grown. Bisexual top.
Yuuhi is 4'11” and is fully grown. Yuuhi a cute.
Tokei Isusangi, Inau-kun is 5' 3” and still confused.
Reiha is 5' 5 1/2”, and is milfy.
Peta is 3' 2”. Peta is \>.</ aka Her Most Imperial Highness Patanjali Piri Yokuhime Kuronogitsune Pa
Detective-san, aka Mugon Chujo is fully grown at 5'11”, and straight.
Kenji Soomi is 5' 4” and gothic lolita.
Musumi Kanako is 5' 6.5”, and is pretty straight.
Hebiki Naoto is 5' 9” and belligerently omnivorous, sexually. You hope only sexually.
Kodachi Umetsume is 5' 4”, and fully grown. Practicing asexual.
Melinda Blitzenberg is 5'10”, fully grown and horrible. Maybe confused.
Ryuu Wakaba is a head shorter and also deceased.
Margaret Steinhausen is gratefully dead.

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>>42270450
Twitter: @XsQuestmistress

Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/41584822/

Interlude: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/37879167/

Threads in Chronological Order, including writeups by XS : http://pastebin.com/Z53TyK0N
or search for Title: Ryukuza on Suptg

Barrier Combat Guide: http://pastebin.com/rZLwzvGx

>Will have to rearrange how I posts intro soon.

>>42270401
Good to see you back XS! Was worried for a bit there.
>[x] Pray and commune with the Kami. (Strengthen you bonds with the Kami.)

>>42270401
>[] Calm yourself and see how much further you can tap into the power that lets you create warm rain. (Fire Increase.)

Good to see that you are still alive XS. How are things going?

>>42270401
>[] Pray and commune with the Kami. (Strengthen you bonds with the Kami.)
They're in Management, and I guess we're like an Assistant Section Chief, until we accept our Mikoto/promotion?
Can't hurt sucking up to Upper Management and the Board.

>>42270401
>[] See if you can explain on the powers of the Void you're already working with. (Void Increase.)

>>42270401
>[] Pray and commune with the Kami. (Strengthen you bonds with the Kami.)

>>42270514
I'm not sure this analogy holds up very well under scrutiny but I'll allow it.

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>>42270401

XS! How are you?

>>42270450
>Melinda Blitzenberg is 5'10”, fully grown and
horrible.
>horrible
Rude.

So this is like a level-up, huh? First/last options don't fit entirely but close enough.

>>42270514

Actually the Kami are pretty much anyone that work in the building, from janitor to big boss.

>>42270632
>>42270502
>>42270491
>fires controlled, smoke gone, tree did not destroy house, did not suffer heart attack from medication
>I'm doing well, thanks. Glad to be back writing.

>>42270645
It's a potential level up. Normally we don't get the option but this seems to be a special case.

>>42270678
>did not suffer heart attack from medication
Is this a reasonable worry?
Well, good luck staying alive anyway.

I'm not sure what to vote. I wouldn't be against a flashback, but not right now, both Void and Fire looks interesting to increase (we have more Void than Fire, but understanding Void could be more useful than a new branch) and we do need to deal with our foes.

Fire would make us quicker, more able to distinguish hidden truth, and probably more hot-blooded. It is quite the opposite of what we are going for, most of the time, but balance has its own strength.

>>42270401
>[] See if you can explain on the powers of the Void you're already working with. (Void Increase.)
OR
>[] Calm yourself and see how much further you can tap into the power that lets you create warm rain. (Fire Increase.)

I don't mind which.

>>42270731
Don't worry about power anon, Ryukusa is overpowered enough as it is! Just pick your favorite is all!

>>42270791
This, really. We'll gain more power as time passes.

I think XS is checking to see where we want to take Ryukusa's power.

>>42270401
>[] See if you can explain on the powers of the Void you're already working with. (Void Increase.)


While getting Fire would be great, I think the Water part of Ryukusa means it's more in-character to learn more about what she has.

As Bruce Lee said, "I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times."

Which means that Bruce Lee must have been afraid of a guy with one gigantic muscular leg

>>42270375
>You also feel your sister and your seer drifting into sleep with the slowness of infinity.
Wait I thought part of our current stress is that we couldn't sense the two of them and were worried that something had happened to them (and Shoko-tan).

>>42270879
Rie mentioned they were at home, and apparently we can sense when any of our family are asleep no matter where they are even when they're sealed.

>>42270879
Come to think of it, since the Mill Pond Demon is a youkai we probably should strengthen our spiritual side more. We have to see him soon.

>>42270933

Increasing our bond with the Kami won't help with youkai

>>42270933
I'm sure we can handle it fine as Ryukusa is now, but it probably wouldn't hurt, no.

>>42270910
Yes there was the bit about Rie informing us but why are we now able to sense them? Is there is some sort of background/outside force that we aren't aware of responsible?

>>42270791

Oh, it's not a question of power, it's a question of what it means for Ryukusa.

Fire is, both in qualities and in flaws, the opposite of Ryukusa's. Taking it would balance her

Void is Ryukusa's second affinity. She has come to term with it, but has not went down this road yet.

The Kami are Ryukusa's new nature, and she decided following it, in her own peculiar way, will be her role in the cosmic order.

>>42270401
So many good choices here. My inner powergamer is tempted to go for the obvious upgrade options but my inner roleplayers wants the flashback. Decisions decisions...

Either
>[X] Think about the previous head in your lap. (Flashback)
or
>[X] Pray and commune with the Kami. (Strengthen you bonds with the Kami.)

The element options seem neat but I've been loving the Shinto stuff so far.

Are all the human soldiers dead?

I kind of feel bad for them. Maybe they'll be open to a new career?

>>42270970
>Ryukusa can sense when her family is sleeping. the first instance was back around thread 75 or so. It only works when they are asleep.

>>42270375
Welcome back!

>>42271137
No just really fucked up, and only a few are dead.

>>42271144
So it was just the two of them not being asleep during all the times we were trying to contact them?

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[XX] Pray and commune with the Kami. (Strengthen your bonds with the Kami.)
[X] See if you can expand on the powers of the Void you're already working with. (Void Increase.)

While you could work on improving those powers you are starting to gain, including some not even normally of your element....or you could consider the next step in your plan to kick enemy ass and take names....you instead clear your mind, and clap twice softly to call the attention of the Kami to you. Akari doesn't even stir, which is good, and you offer a series of prayers. Many of them you've promised to allies who have assisted you, and those you've slain in the course of your battles who didn't deserve it, and others you've promised to hopefully appease the deities and ghosts you've disturbed and troubled with all your running around.

You're really not in the mood to think about your first kill.

Praying to the wide variety of spirits and kami you have both encountered and met associates of, you feel a warm, calming peace settle over you. Giving devotion isn't something you do regularly, though you give offerings often enough (and regularly in the case of a certain feline). Still, there is a definite pleasure, a sort of feeling of rightness and re-balancing that accompanies the efforts. You finish by giving thanks to Amaterasu-Omikami, and your own three kami: Matagama-no-Shitoki, Ame-no-Omukade-no-Musume, and your most recent....ally, you suppose. Calling Yama-no-Musume-no-Okurimono an acquisition or a gift seems disrespectful.

“Yes, it would be.”

>>42271181


>"Hey, Yui, can you fix a severed human hand?"

>“Yes, it would be.”

Wonder if the Kami will be similar to Wakaba

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>>42271203
Your eyes shoot open and you look up at the white haired apparition of Matagama-no-Shitoki's human form. Omukade-no-Musume is standing over the sword that is her true self and looking at the place where Melinda had menaced you from. “I wonder what she would have tasted like,” she muses not entirely to herself.

“Really, I don't mind, but you're going to have to use me sooner or later. I'd rather not go to waste any longer, Ryukusa-san.” Musume-no-Okurimono is standing over you, arms crossed. While Matagama-san and Omukade-san are nearly twins, looking alike perhaps because they have been at your side for the longest, Okurimono-san is tall, wild haired, and wearing clothing far less formal. And looking very strange, but you knew she would. The sword has a history, one which you may need to look deeper into some day.

[] My deepest apologies, I didn't plan on having cat interference.
[] I'm not really like your previous owner, you know.
[] Well....I'm not quite sure how to respond to that, actually.
[] Patience. Miyamoto-sensei said to strike only once, when the time was right.
[] ….you do know I'm planning to go to war with Clan Ryo, right?

>>42271203
Why our weapons so QT?

>>42271290
>[x] My deepest apologies, I didn't plan on having cat interference.
>[x] I'm not really like your previous owner, you know.

>>42271194
>Less that, than when theya re asleep you can sense them sleeping and their general mental state. Ryukusa's awareness of them sleeping can pierce even magical spells and barriers, as evidenced that she could sense Er Yin sleeping even when she was bound by a talisman to keep her unconscious and out of pain.

>>42271290
>[] My deepest apologies, I didn't plan on having cat interference.
>[] I'm not really like your previous owner, you know.

>>42271290
>[] Patience. Miyamoto-sensei said to strike only once, when the time was right.
And so we shall.

>>42271290
>[x] My deepest apologies, I didn't plan on having cat interference.
>[x] I'm not really like your previous owner, you know.
>[x] ….you do know I'm planning to go to war with Clan Ryo, right?

>>42271290
>[] Patience. Miyamoto-sensei said to strike only once, when the time was right.
>[] ….you do know I'm planning to go to war with Clan Ryo, right

>>42271290

>"You will never go to waste, Yama-no-Musume-no-Okuimono-san. A blade is just as important when it is used than when it is not."

>"I must thank you. Few blades can impress members of Clan Ryo like you did. I thank you too, Matagama-no-Shitoki-san and Ame-no-Omukade-no-Musume-san."

>>42271290
>[] Patience. Miyamoto-sensei said to strike only once, when the time was right.

>>42271290
>[X] My deepest apologies, I didn't plan on having cat interference.
>[X] Patience. Miyamoto-sensei said to strike only once, when the time was right.

>>42271325
Gotcha, somnosense is on another level entirely than normal magic. Now there is less to worry about.

>>42271509
>ever not worrying maximum

>>42271626
Oh anon, I am always worrying at full blast. This just lets me focus more worry on fewer things for purer concentration.

>>42271290
Have we even used the other two much? Ryukusa is very diplomatic when it counts.

>>42271811

We have used them regularily, if not incredibly so. Our centipede blade in particular dueled the greatest sword of Japan, unless I'm mistaken.

It's more that Okurimono is more-or-less our executioner blade

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[XX] My deepest apologies, I didn't plan on having cat interference.
[X] I'm not really like your previous owner, you know.
[X] Patience. Miyamoto-sensei said to strike only once, when the time was right.
[+] Thank you, but you need to remember one thing....

You finish the prayers, and lower your hands, without clapping them together twice. Doing so while actually confronted by kami might be considered a dismissal, and you're really not sure how any of the three would react to that.

You really need to consult with Kiku-chan about this sometime.

“Thank you – all three of you, thank you many times over. But to be honest, Okurimono-san, I really wasn't expecting Rie-sama to take a personal interest in the situation, which I do apologize for. I don't mean to not use you a lot of the time, but I'm not like Wakaba-san was. I prefer less violence, because most of the people I fight tend to be kind of important or really dangerous.” She looks down at you dubiously the....uh....you're not sure what those are. Tentacles? Dragon heads? Limbs? Whatever they are shift and move, and you shrug mildly. “I take my cues from Musashi as well as Sun Tzu; sooner or later I'll have to fight, so I'll strike when the time is exactly right.”

Matagama-san smiles beatifically down at you as Omukade-san walks back to join her sisters. “Well said, Ryukusa-san.”

“Besides, Ryukusa-san knows the value of a blade is just as much sheathed as unsheathed,” Omukade-san points out, echoing your own thoughts on the subject with eerie insight. “She's used me as a threat more often than in combat, but she'll strike without hesitation when the time comes.” Laying her hand on the odachi-kami's shoulder, she smiles. “when you are the right weapon for the job, you can rest assured she will use you to the fullest of your potential.”

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>>42271868
You nod solemnly. “Not every weapon can frighten Clan Ryo warriors as you did, Okurimono-san; but if they'd attacked, you'd be swimming in their blood. Attacking too soon or too late is never good.” You run your fingers through Akari's hair slowly and she turns to the side sleepily, a smile gracing her lips. “But Clan Ryo has much to answer for, and I WILL have my answers.”

Matagama-san and Omukade-san shudder simultaneously, and even Okurimono-san looks a little daunted by the implications. “Surely you can't mean to take on Kinashut Kamuy's priestess...?”

[] ….do you know something I don't? Uh, wait, dumb question. But instead....
[] Yes, yes I do mean.
[] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!
[] I'm kind of debating that now due to some odd conflicting situations.
[] And what if I do decide to do that? Will you assist me?

>>42271897
>[] ….do you know something I don't? Uh, wait, dumb question. But instead....
>[] Yes, yes I do mean.

>>42271897
>[] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!

>>42271897
>[] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!
>[] I'm kind of debating that now due to some odd conflicting situations.
Might get countermanded by our boss.

>>42271897
>[X] Yes, yes I do mean.
>[X] ….do you know something I don't? Uh, wait, dumb question.
Curious why they would be daunted by this. It can't be surprised since Ryukusa has been rather blatant about taking down Kishanut Kamuy. It couldn't be a lack of confidence seeing as Ryukusa is a full Demigoddess now, is immortal, and she can take the powers of Horobi whenever she desires.

>>42271897
[] And what if I do decide to do that? Will you assist me?

>>42271897

>"Perhaps not immediately, but be assured I will if the moment arise. "

>"The crimes of Kinashut Kamuy are numerous, and will not be unpunished, be it by me or by another"

>"Is there something I should know, Okurimono-san?"

>>42271897
>[] Yes, yes I do mean.
>[] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!

>>42271897
>[] ….do you know something I don't? Uh, wait, dumb question. But instead....
>[] Yes, yes I do mean.

>>42271980
They're probably worried - even if Ryukusa is super strong doesn't mean it'll be a walkover after all.

>>42271897
>[] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!
>[] I'm kind of debating that now due to some odd conflicting situations.

>>42271897
>“Surely you can't mean to take on Kinashut Kamuy's priestess...?”
Well, she started it!

>>42272180
I am now imagining a very funny kid fight.

>>42272219
Well you can tell from the update portrait that Kinashut is but a young schoolgirl anon. Your imagination must have the right of things.

>>42272107
>>42271980

The Serpent Kamuy is far, far older than Ryukusa, has an army, and was probably preparing for her attacking since her assassination failed

>>42272362
Definitely got the preparation advantage, yes. With its experience that is nothing to scoff at either.

>>42272362
She's also probably preparing another assassination attempt, since that's not the sort of thing you just give up on after a failure.

>>42272386
On the other hand, the longer we leave it the more prepared she can get.

Do we know why Kishanut Kamuy assassinated Horobi and his wives in the first place?

>>42271897
[] ….do you know something I don't? Uh, wait, dumb question. But instead....
[] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!
[] And what if I do decide to do that? Will you assist me?

>>42272523
Might be a future plot-point.

>>42272523
It's something we'll be asking Oba-san, now that we have possible confirmation of her identity.

>>42272523

The theory was that she wanted to take over his role

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[X] ….do you know something I don't? Uh, wait, dumb question. But instead....
[X] Yes, yes I do mean.
[X] Did Wakaba-san know about Oba-san?!
[+] The crimes of Kinashut will be punished one way or another....

Their reaction is understandable on one level – being kami themselves, the idea of killing a Great Kami might be a little disturbing to them. On the other hand, you've had ample time to consider it and more. Of course the fact that you're a demigod now might be making them worry too – it wouldn't be like a mortal slaying a god, or a god slaying another god, after all. It would be an act that shifts the balance of power in the heavens, you suspect.

Which might not stop you; she owes you several things.

“Someone has to answer for the way my life has been arranged, and the only one who had that power was Oba-san. So it is very likely there will be a confrontation between her and I, yes. And when that happens, I'll do whatever I have to, to make sure my family and loved ones are safe.” You look up and Okurimono-san takes a step back. “Clearly you know what Oba-san is, but did Wakaba-san realize it? Did she know what it was she was serving?” Letting your question sink in you ask softly, carefully controlling any temper you might show, “Is there something you need to speak to me of, Okurimono-san?”

Both Omukade-san and Matagama-san look at Okurimono-san, who shakes her head. “Even if she knew, it would not have mattered. Wakaba-san only cared about her status and her duty, and only in that order. She was easily manipulated, and Kinashut Kamuy's priestess has always been of the persuasive kind.” Okurimono-san looks up and wipes her face with her hand, flinging the rain aside with the same motion one would fling blood from one's blade. “There are some....some who think that Kinashut is not the one possessing her priestess.”

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>>42272730
“It would be unheard of....” Matagama-san starts, but Omukade-san interrupts her.

“It is the only thing that makes sense. Unless you have a better explanation?” She crosses her arms, her challenge clear, while Matagama-san flushes in embarrassment.

“Well, who else would it be? I have it on personal information and experience that the snake-goddess is definitely the one at fault for much of this mess.” But Okurimono-san is shaking her head, her worry clearly written on her strange face. “....I realize you are all three speaking of things beyond my knowledge, but you're going to have to explain this to me – you brought it up, I didn't! So while you may know something I don't, is there something you can tell me that might help me?”

Okurimono-san looks upset at your accusation, and fidgets, which looks odd for an earth-spirit of her power and strength. Especially with the cicada claws and wings twitching like that. Freaky. “Not another kamuy or kami possessing the priestess, but the priestess in possession of Kinashut Kamuy.” She twitches nervously, looking somewhat ashamed, as though speaking of things not meant to be spoken of by children to an adult. Which in a weird sort of way is true. Matagama-san doesn't look any happier, but Omukade-san in nodding sagely with an 'I told you so' expression.

….oh.

….um....

….well, shit.

….wait.

Wait wait wait.

….fuck. Kamidamnit. Shit. Heaven.

Great Kami and Dragons, she wasn't grooming you to control you.

She was grooming you so she could POSSESS you!

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>>42272749
If you didn't have Akari's head in your lap right now you'd go throw up in the corner.

“Do you....do any of you have any proof of this, any true knowledge?” Your voice is soft, weak-sounding, and the ringing in your ears is deafening. Your vision is a little greyed out, but you won't pass out. No, because that might be ~merciful~ in light of this knowledge.

The trio of kami look at one another, and you feel their minds vibrating across the void, a momentary collusion of their thoughts that are beyond your reach. Yet you don't think they're doing it to hide their thoughts from you. It seems more like they're just wanting to be sure of their answers.

Matagama-no-Shitoki, the eldest and strongest of them, speaks. “No, Ryukusa-san, we have no proof nor true knowledge of this. Only that Kinashut Kamuy was never so vindictive, bloodthirsty, or cruel as she has been recently.” You force yourself to remember 'recently' for these beings is measured in centuries. “Her actions, her will is strange, and for a kamuy to be upon the earth for so long is...”

“Unheard of,” says Omukade-san flatly. “Even before my near-death it was strange, and having been possessed, I can say with certainty that there is possession there, and it is more like that our Ryukusa-san has.” She's referring to Rie's cat youkai, of course. A sort of voluntary possession, but you're possessing them, not the other way around. Which is exactly Omukade-san's point, you suppose.

[] Thank them for their help, and dismiss them.
[] Ask if they'll still help you in the battle despite that.
[] Ask Matagama-san if she knows of any way to undo the possession.
[] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.
[] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.

>>42272766
>[] Ask Matagama-san if she knows of any way to undo the possession.
>[] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.

>>42272766
>[x] Ask if they'll still help you in the battle despite that.
>[x] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.

>>42272766
[] Ask Matagama-san if she knows of any way to undo the possession.
[] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.
[] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.

>>42272766
>[] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.
>[] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.
Oh, well, this will make a mess of the Kami org chart.
Not to mention, if Kinashut really is possessed, then we have to go over our promises made and make sure we didn't accidentally fuck ourselves over with a badly worded promise.

So the snake bitch has been mindfucking her own god to steal his powers? Wow. That's impressive as hell for a mortal, spirit child or not.

>>42272954
Sure is, but at this point I question whether she qualifies as mortal, any more that is.

>>42272766
[x] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.
[x] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.

>>42272766
>[] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.

Well this is worrying. Turns out oba-san is even MORE a shit than previously assumed.

>>42272766
>[] Ask Matagama-san if she knows of any way to undo the possession.
>[] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.
>[] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.


>Apologize deeply to Okurimono-san for our accusation, and thank the three kami again, her above all. This information is incredibly important.

>>42273098
Apologizing is probably a good idea, yeah.

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[X] Ask Matagama-san if she knows of any way to undo the possession.
[XX] Ask Omukade-san and Matagama-san if there have been any other cases of deities falling to the will of mortals like that.
[XX] Cover Akari-niji-chan's ears and ask them if they think there is any way that Kinashut's priestess could still try and possess you.
[+] Sorry, Okurimono-san!

“Does that happen often? I mean, a god falling under mortal control like that?” You direct your question to the two older kami, because apparently Omukade-san remembers things from her life as a youkai in some strange way.

Matagama-san looks surprised by your question. “Of course, Ryukusa-san. The Seven Sisters are infamous for falling for mortal trickery, and many scholars and sorcerers have tricked nogitsune and kitsune into doing their will. And even Susano-Oh fell under the charms of Kushinada-hime.”

Omukade-san nods her agreement. “It isn't impossible for even a Great Kami to be bound to the will of a powerful sorcerer or sorceress.”

“Part of a priest's duties are to stop that from happening, after all,” chimes in Okurimono-san. “Even I know that much.”

You shudder at the thought. You'd never really looked at the legends quite like that before, but in hindsight it seems obvious that even the most powerful of Kami could be thwarted or even enslaved by mortals. Hachiman killed the great mukade-demon; Susano-Oh was so enamored of Kushinada he fought your uncle Orochi; and the many stories of the Seven Sisters losing one of their number to simple human trickery is so common it spans the continents.

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>>42273531
Placing your hands over Akari's ears, you ignore her she looks up at you mildly, her wakefulness obvious to you even though she would have seemed asleep to everyone else. You purposefully move your mouth as little as possible as you ask the really dangerous question. “How likely is it that she could possess me, Matagama-san? Does she have any special holds or power over me now?”

The worried look that Matagama-san gives the other two kami isn't reassuring, and Akari glances around the rooftop, apparently not seeing anything. That only makes sense, you're the one who is still in the middle of prayers and communion. “I do not know, Ryukusa-san. Of course it would be that much harder if you continue to wear me, and there are no spells upon you that I can see, but you should perhaps speak to your seers and priestess....just to be sure.”

With a nod, you take your hand from your kohai's ears. She doesn't say anything, just watches you calmly as she rests her head upon your lap. “....so you think they would know how to help Kinashut Kamuy escape her priestess' possession as well?” You doubt she'll have any knowledge of how to undo it herself, if she isn't even sure about whether or not the priestess could posses you. Matagama-san's worried nod confirms that fear – she was a tool to protect Kiku-chan, not one she used in her rituals.

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>>42273548
Taking a deep breath, you bow to each of them in turn from the waist, and Akari glances in the direction of each bow before her gaze returns to you. “Thank you all for your kind assistance and good service; and please forgive me for being unsure of you, Okurimono-san. But the things you have told me are very valuable. Your service, all three of you, is gracious and benevolent.” Well, benevolent to you, anyways; you're pretty sure everyone you've stabbed with Omukade-san doesn't appreciate her one bit. They bow, Okurimono-san looking relieved and pleased at your praise as they fade. Clapping your hands twice, you look down at a bemused Akari.

“Talking to ghosts, aniki?” she asks mildly.

[] My swords and necklace, actually.
[] No, just some near relatives.
[] Kami, truth be told. I don't recommend it.
[] No, and what are you doing up? You need to rest more than that, I'm sure.
[] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?

>>42273573
>[] No, and what are you doing up? You need to rest more than that, I'm sure.

>>42273573
[X] Kami, truth be told. I don't recommend it.
[X] My swords and necklace, actually.
[X] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?

>>42273573
>[] My swords and necklace, actually.

>>42273573
>[x] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?
Akari knows all!

>>42273573
>[] My swords and necklace, actually
>[] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?

>>42273573
[] My swords and necklace, actually.
>[] What are you doing up? You need to rest more than that, I'm sure.
[] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?

>>42273573
>[] No, and what are you doing up? You need to rest more than that, I'm sure.
>[] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?
Everyone knows you heal faster on a lap-pillow.

>>42273573
>[] My swords and necklace, actually.

>Kiss her

>There is nothing I can do to make you go back to sleep, is it?

>>42273752
Oh, I like the kiss idea. Let's do it. Ryukusa gotta appreciate her Akari.

>>42273752
>There is nothing I can do to make you go back to sleep, is it?
Lewd

>>42273573
>[] Kami, truth be told. I don't recommend it.

>>42273548
>dat size
>dat hair
>dem horns
Is this the Kiku-Ryu hatchling?

>>42273910
Whoever it is she's certainly 2cute

>>42273608
>>42273910

>Disrespecting the Kami

Bad idea

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[X] My swords and necklace, actually.
[X] No, and what are you doing up? You need to rest more than that, I'm sure.
[X] So, how much do you know, you sneaky brat?
[+] Kisses, of course.

“My swords, and the necklace Kiku-chan gave me. They were exceptionally helpful too, though really – hey, why are you up, anyways, you need more rest than that. I would know.”

Smiling, Akari looks up at you with those soft carnelian eyes. “You were upset, so I woke up.”

You lean down and kiss her softly on the lips, a kiss she eagerly reciprocates, her eyes closed and a her tail twitching. “....how did you know I was upset, Akari-niji-chan?” you ask after breaking the somewhat lengthy kiss. “Is there any way I can help you get back to sleep?” You smile down at her winsomely.

She smiles brightly. “I always know when you are upset. Also, the rain is freezing salt water now.” Flushing, you realize she's right, and you spend some effort to return the warmth to the sea-water rain you've been soothing your best friend with. She blinks as you actually blush and reaches up with both hands to lightly brush your cheeks. Further embarrassing you for embarrassing yourself, because....well because! “....Aniki?” she asks, her expression concerned now.

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>>42274091
“Damn it....well, how much do you know already?” You look down at her and she lowers her hands to fold them across her midriff. You place your hands over her collarbones, and she covers them with hers lightly, the touch soothing even though relatively unfamiliar.

“Well, you were concerned with someone being able to possess you. You think that Kinashut Kamuy is possessed by her priestess, instead of possessing her priestess. Mainly that.” Her brow furrows as she considers. It won't take her long – she is perceptive and smart, and very thorough in her thinking. She'll pick up on why Kinashut Kamuy – or her priestess – killed your previous incarnation in a few moments, if you give her those moments.

[] Distract her quickly, before she realizes how bad it is.
[] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.
[] Give her a clue about how that changes your goals.
[] Ask her what she would do if her previous incarnation was murdered by Oba-san.
[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.

>>42274108
>[] Ask her what she would do if her previous incarnation was murdered by Oba-san.
>[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.

>>42274108
>[] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.
>[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.
Cute.

>>42274108
>[] Give her a clue about how that changes your goals.
Remove megalomaniacs
>[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.

>>42274108
>[] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.
>[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.

>>42274108
>[x] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.
>[x] Distract her quickly, before she realizes how bad it is.
I hear lewd things are VERY distracting

>>42274179
Anon pls
Don't put the dessert before the training and meal plan

>>42274108
>[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.

>>42274234
Why not dessert followed by dessert and dessert?

>>42274108
>[] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.
>[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.
>[] Give her a clue about how that changes your goals, but only if she doesn't find it herself

>>42274108
[] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.
[] Give her a clue about how that changes your goals.
[] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.
[] Ask her what she would do if her previous incarnation was murdered by Oba-san.

Captcha, a construction safety light isn't a street sign.

>>42274255
Captcha doesn't know what anything is, anon. Especially not food and vehicles.

>>42274291
That's why we're teaching it.

>>42274108
>[x] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.
>[x] Give her a clue about how that changes your goals.
>[x] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.

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[XXX] Tell her that Jinyuu and Er yin are safe.
[XX] Let her come to the conclusion you did on her own.

You let her mull over that, and let her know as she does so, that Er Yin and Jinyuu-onee-sama are safe at home. “Shoko-san too?” she asks distractedly.

“Not sure, to be honest. I only know they are because Rie-sama mentioned they were home and I know when any of you are sleeping now.”

She looks up at you. “Aniki, you shouldn't tell me things like that anymore.”

Wait, what? “How does that follow?”

“Well, if Kinashut's priestess used her to kill the previous Horobi, then arranged it so she would have control over your life, then put me with you in case you got out of hand somehow, then if she couldn't possess you she could possess the person who killed you.” The thought process follows logically, sure but that's no reason to....oh.

“The person who kills the monster is the hero. And a hero who slays the insane god of destruction probably isn't just a hero, either, but a demigod. You're worried she might try and possess you?” She nods, but you barely notice. Another thought interrupts: her sister's insistence that Akari accompany her back to their family. “And you think your sister might know about it too.” Unfortunately she looks startled, because that ~hadn't~ occurred to her yet. “The fact that you're a berserker isn't news to me. In fact, that's probably what it would take for you to kill me at this point. Combined with the power of a priestess who could control Kinashut Kamuy, you taking me out would definitely get noticed by very powerful Kami, and fast-track you into some Greater Kami or Dragon's good graces.”

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>>42274776
“Yes, so you shouldn't tell me anything so important anymore, aniki. I'm a liability now.” She says it with grace and dignity, but you can see the hidden pain breaking her heart. The distances between herself and her lover Yui with no explanation, her friend Kiki-hime, the fear of being pitted against her very best friend and lover.

[] Nonsense. That's stupid talk.
[] I made a promise, long before I had these powers and this new self, Akari....
[] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?
[] We'll get ourselves thoroughly vetted by Er Yin, Jinyuu, and Kiku. We'll be fine, you'll see.
[] You're forgetting something, Akari-niji-chan....

>>42274802
>[] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?

>>42274802
>[] Nonsense. That's stupid talk.
>[] We'll get ourselves thoroughly vetted by Er Yin, Jinyuu, and Kiku. We'll be fine, you'll see.

>>42274802
>[] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?
>[] We'll get ourselves thoroughly vetted by Er Yin, Jinyuu, and Kiku. We'll be fine, you'll see.

>>42274802
>[] I made a promise, long before I had these powers and this new self, Akari....
>[] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?

>>42274802
>[X] Nonsense. That's stupid talk.
>[X] We'll get ourselves thoroughly vetted by Er Yin, Jinyuu, and Kiku. We'll be fine, you'll see.
>[X] You're forgetting something, Akari-niji-chan....

>>42274802
>[] We'll get ourselves thoroughly vetted by Er Yin, Jinyuu, and Kiku. We'll be fine, you'll see.
>[] You're forgetting something, Akari-niji-chan....

>>42274802
[] I made a promise, long before I had these powers and this new self, Akari....
[] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?
[] You're forgetting something, Akari-niji-chan....
>[] Er Yin knows the void as well as sorcery, Jinyuu knows water and her new faith could give her new methods of dealing with things, Kiku is an accomplished priestess, and then there is Yui's skill as a healer. You suffered with this knowledge alone, but you are never alone, Akari, never forget that.

>>42274802

>Hug the girl. Write the sign for "Trust" on her back

>[] Nonsense. That's stupid talk.
>[] I made a promise, long before I had these powers and this new self, Akari....
>[] You're forgetting something, Akari-niji-chan....

>I love you, Akari-niji-chan. You are the mother of my child. Each fight, anything I do is for you as much as for the rest of the family. And each time, you help me, support me, fight and win for me.There nothing, no one that could make me want to distance myself from you, and I know that none of the others would tolerate this thought. You are not a liability, and never will be. You are my strength and my heart.

>>42274995
This is mushy as shit, anon.

Breddy gud.

>>42274995

I feel like I should have added something like:

>"I know your loyality, tenacity and power, and that you'll fight eight millions mortals, yokai, Kami and spirit-children without an hesitation to save any one of us."

>>42274802
>[x] I made a promise, long before I had these powers and this new self, Akari....
>[x] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?
It won't!

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>Wall of Text incoming.

>>42275683
Those are the best kind of walls!

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[XXX] Do you think that ostracizing yourself from the people who love you will help?
[XX] We'll get ourselves thoroughly vetted by Er Yin, Jinyuu, and Kiku. We'll be fine, you'll see.
[X] I made a promise, long before I had these powers and this new self, Akari....
[X] You're forgetting something, Akari-niji-chan....
[+] Very personal reminders
[+] Like all the really personal ones
[+] Silly niji-chan.

“How silly would that be? I mean, the thought is nice, perhaps, but trying to cut ties with my clan isn't like turning your back on Clan Ryo.” She blinks and looks at you, confused. “Well, it's not like I'd give any orders for Yui-niji-chan and Yuuhi-chan not to bring you back. And Kiki-hime would probably order me to hunt you down and drag you back in ivy.” It would be the only thing that could possible hold her. She starts to protest of course, but you don't allow her to get a word in edgewise.

“So of course you wouldn't run away, you'd stay with us, trying to keep from being part of our family. But that would be impossible, considering Kiku-chan and Er Yin-sensei would have to give us thorough examinations to make sure we don't have any secret spells or curses or powers that are on us. Oh, that's because I'd tell everyone what happened, of course, so you wouldn't be able to avoid that.” looking up at the dull grey-black sky of the Barrier, you tap your lips thoughtfully. “And of course that would make Yui-niji-chan worried for you, I doubt you'd be able to get more than five feet away from her. She's no dunce, either, she'd stick to you like glue at the first hint of you running away.”

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>>42275704
You look down at her as she tries to protest. “Of course, I made a promise to protect you, so there's that. Apparently I have to be careful about that sort of thing now, but I made that promise long before I had these powers and this body. And this doesn't really change that promise, or my plans at all. It's only one more little complication, one that we can deal with far more easily if you don't stay away from us. Remember, I have to worry about the same thing, and I'd rather you were there to protect Kiki-hime if something did go wrong and I got possessed.” She blinks at you, her eyes wet with unshed tears. “Besides, you're forgetting a few things.”

You lift your little finger. “First, you're already possessed of the spirit and power of Nikne Kamuy. That means to possess you she's going to have to fight him as well as you.” You're just guessing there, but it's a reasonable one. Ring finger next, the red jade shimmering. “Second, Er yin is a powerful sorceress, Kiku-chan is older than everyone else but maybe Er Yin and me and has been a priestess most of that time, and Jinyuu-onee-sama is now a Buddhist as well as a spiritualist. I think between the three of them they can cover just about anything that could happen.” You lift your middle finger. “And finally, you can't be alone, because between the half of the family involved in spiritual matters, and the half of the family that loves you to the point of ordering ME around, that's everyone in the clan except maybe Shoko-san and Inau-kun, both of whom will be totally bullied or ordered into helping by everyone ~else~.” You've seen Yuuhi-chan beat sense into Shoko-san more often than the other way around, which is saying something. Inau-kun would go to her aunt for help, you're positive.

Akari's cheeks are crimson, and she looks thoroughly abashed, but you're not done quite yet.

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>>42275724
You pick her up, and she helps you, turning to face you, expecting you to let her kneel before you. Yeah, right. You drag her close and hug her tightly, your tail tracing the kanji for Love, Trust, Strength, and Family along her back as you speak softly. “How could I allow the mother of my child fear for her safety or the safety of the rest of her family when she is beloved by us all? I love you, Akari. So does Yui, and hime-chan too. I've watched them, and they would never allow you to abandon them just because you are afraid of something that hasn't happened. The others too – you are my niji-chan, but they all look to you for strength and guidance. You protect them, have fought for them by my side and without me. When I am not there for them, they and I know you will be there for them in my place.” She's sobbing silently in your arms now, but you're still not finished with her.

“You cannot be a liability. You are the foundation upon which I lay my trust, and the love which you give me allows me to rise forever. I could never distance myself from you, because your heart beats for me, and mine for you together we are stronger than any sorcery or power. No one in our family will tolerate you pushing them away – you would have to run away....and to do that, you would have to escape me, Yui, Kiki-hime, Inau-kun, Yuuhi-chan, Er Yin-sensei, Kiku-chan, and even Shoko-san. And Jinyuu-onee-sama would just predict where you were hiding anyways, so we'd all find you and bring you back anyways.”

Is this some sort of elaborate reverse-bullying?

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>>42275747

She laughs, a soft, choked laugh, and you rub your cheek against hers, your horns singing along each other as your sapphire brushes her jade lightly. “Against a priestess who possessed her own goddess and killed the God of Destruction, and you, niji-chan....I would bet on you, every single time,” you whisper, and she breaks down, bawling like a child for the first time in her life. Akari clings to you for dear life, as she cries and you hold her, letting the rain be her tears. You just wish she hadn't snapped a half dozen ribs when she hugged you.

Not that you give the slightest hint that she did so. Some things are more important.

>To Be Continued

>>42275704
>>42275724
>>42275747

Flawless victory!~

Now finish her Ryu chan!

>>42275760
Stone is a stubborn element. You have to hammer the point home hard.

>>42275781
Thanks for running XS!

Thanks for the thread
Missed Ryukusa and Co through August

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I hope to run again tomorrow at 9:00 am. Thank you for reading and playing, and your patience during the difficult times.

>>42275854
Tomorrow already? I'll try to make it!

>>42275854
Thanks for running XS. Was definitely worth the wait.

>>42275854
Thanks, XS, see you then

>>42275854
Thanks for running!

>>42275854
Thank you for running, XS.
>>42275800
Ryukusa is going to be doing a lot more then hammering Akari.

>>42275781

Awww...

Thanks for running! It was amazing

Do you think you can run tomorrow?

>>42275927

Sorry, I missed your post before writing this one

>>42275927
>>42275941
It should be fine. No doctors and the smoke is gone for now. This is the first time I've written since my last post for Ryukuza Quest.

>>42275975
Hope you stay well. I will probably miss the start of the thread tomorrow, but will do my best to catch it.

>>42275975
Well you managed quite a fine pace in that case, looks like the fires didn't drain your skills.

>>42276005
It will be in the archives and the thread-list pastebin if not, never fear.

Your fellows haven't lead you entirely wrong yet!

>>42276068
Awesome you made it through the fires, looking forward to tomorrows thread.